Necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck: review of the literature and report of a case

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly spreading, life-threatening, bacterial disease. Mortality rates have been estimated to vary between 8.7% and 74%. Mortality depends on many factors, one of which is early recognition. Necrotizing fasciitis of dental origin has a low prevalence and as such presents diagnostic challenges for the dentist. The literature is reviewed, and a case history is presented.